Discrimination

The freedom to be yourself without fear of discrimination is a basic human right as defined by the United Nations Convention of Human Rights.

However discrimination can come in a variety of forms and in different ways. It can happen in the workplace, at school and in the public arena.

Discrimination happens when someone is treated unfairly or less favourably than another person in the same or similar circumstances. Discrimination can be direct or indirect, and generally takes the form of exclusion or rejection from something.

Unfortunately discrimination tends to be more common when a person has a disability.

In New Zealand the Human Rights Commission has a support service within the office of the Disabilities Rights Commissioner whose job it is to ensure that people with disabilities have:

Be treated with respect, dignity and equity. We also have the right to not be harassed, taunted or teased because of who we are.

Everyone is equally entitled to human rights without discrimination.

People with disabilities may experience unfair treatment because of things such as how they look or think, or their reliance on a guide dogs, wheelchairs or other remedial means. Discrimination can also be subtle, creating systemic barriers that lock people out of social and economic opportunities.

If you, or your child, experiences any form of discrimination the Human Rights Commission can assist with the likes of:

Contact us:

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on this site are those of the individual authors and not necessarily those of the Tourette’s Association New Zealand unless specified otherwise. The material provided is for information only and not to be used for diagnosis or treatment purposes. The information provided is not a substitute for professional care in the diagnosis, treatment and management of genetic conditions.